Many people are passionate about snakes, and many of them keep corn snakes as pets. There is a wide range of coloration among these snakes, which are generally calm and straightforward to care for.
But if you’re wondering whether corn snakes burrow, you’re not alone. You may be surprised by what you find out.
Yes, Corn snakes do, in fact, burrow, if you’re wondering. Natural burrowers and corn snakes enjoy tunneling through loose soil and substrate. Your corn snake will probably spend a lot of time underground if you give them a suitable enclosure.
Will a Corn Snake Dig Burrows?
A pet corn snake’s digging and burrowing habits rarely cause concern. Corn snakes dig and burrow for a few different reasons.
In contrast to other snake species, which may dig because they are agitated or frightened owing to being in a tiny tank, corn snakes will dig or burrow regularly, especially when they are young or shedding.
Since they are prone to become active during stressful or anxious situations, corn snakes are rare among snakes.
It’s not uncommon for a corn snake to burrow into loose soil and rest there. Depending on how cold or damp the earth is, some young corn snakes may spend most of the day underground.
What Causes Corn Snakes To Burrow?
There are several causes for your corn snake to begin burrowing:
To Cool Off
They are attempting to flee the heat, is one explanation. Corn snakes can start burrowing to locate a cooler location to lay down if your house is hot or if their tank is in a sunny area.
Shedding
Corn snakes may also burrow when they are shedding their skin. It is common practice for snakes to burrow as they are getting ready to shed their skin.
Corn Snakes Sometimes Burrow To Sleep
Corn snakes may hibernate underground. Corn snakes frequently dig burrows in the wild to stay warm during the chilly winter. Your corn snake may search for a spot to hibernate if you observe them spending more time underground.
Although most corn snakes kept as pets won’t hibernate, they may still burrow to sleep if their tank is freezing.
The temperature of your corn snake’s tank may need to be regulated if you find that it burrows more during the winter.
Parasites Or Parasitic Infections
Corn snakes with parasitic diseases may spend more time underground, possibly to alleviate the discomfort brought on by the parasites’ presence.
Parasites may be lethal for snakes and inflict severe harm if not addressed. Treating your corn snake at the vet as soon as you believe it may have parasites is critical.
Anxiety or Danger
In addition, if they feel threatened or uneasy, corn snakes may burrow. They could look for a hiding location if they think they are in danger. Because of this, it’s crucial to ensure that their tank is safe and that they have many places to hide.
It’s crucial to check the condition of your corn snake’s enclosure if you observe it digging more frequently than usual.
Always seek advice from a reptile veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s health. They will be able to advise you on how to take the best care of your corn snake and whether there is anything wrong.
How To Encourage Your Corn Snake To Burrow
Give Your Snake Room To Burrow
If you keep a corn snake in a terrarium, give it plenty of burrowing space. One square foot of floor space per snake foot is recommended. Therefore, if you have a corn snake that is four feet long, its cage has to be at least four square feet.
As natural burrowers, corn snakes frequently spend most of their time underground. This is because they feel secure and protected while they are hidden from predators. Your corn snake will probably construct a complex network of tunnels and hiding spots if given a chance.
Chose The Right Substrate
Selecting the proper substrate when building a lifelike habitat for your corn snake is crucial. Sand, dirt, and mulch are a few examples of typical substrates. You will line the bottom of your snake’s terrarium with this material.
Despite the wide range of available substrates, not all are appropriate for corn snakes. For instance, the soil may not be sufficiently absorbent, and ingesting sand may result in stomach issues.
Instead, we advise using mulch. This organic substance is safe for corn snakes to swallow and will keep their habitat tidy and dry.
Mulch makes an excellent burrowing substrate. Mulch is the ideal substance for corn snakes to excavate as they like digging.
Additionally, it is relatively inexpensive and straightforward to locate. Mulch is typically available in your neighborhood home improvement store or garden center.
Spray Water Regularly
Spraying their cage with water frequently is another approach to get your corn snake to dig. This will contribute to creating the humid atmosphere that corn snakes prefer. Just be careful not to drench the substrate since doing so might promote the formation of mold and mildew.
It’s crucial to try to mimic the humidity that a corn snake would encounter in its natural environment in the cage. Your corn snake has the best chance of thriving if you provide a humid atmosphere.
Corn snakes make wonderful companions if you’re looking for a pet that’s a little different from the typical cat or dog. They require little upkeep and are easy to handle due to their calm temperament.
Do your homework beforehand if you’re considering purchasing a corn snake. You want to ensure you’re ready for all that comes with owning one because they are a lifetime commitment.
Conclusion
Does the corn snake burrow? Absolutely! In actuality, they like doing it, which comes naturally to them. If you want to encourage your corn snake to burrow, ensure enough space for it and choose a suitable substrate.
Regularly misting their enclosure with water will also help to maintain humidity. Using these suggestions, you can ensure that your corn snake is content and healthy.
